This is a course which will challenge you and help you to understand, and test, the world around you.
The department is built around a team of very experienced and enthusiastic teachers and technicians, who run a busy programme of teaching, support and practical classes.
Chemistry works particularly well in combination with biology, physics and/or mathematics. As part of any programme of study it will certainly improve your skills in numeracy, practical work and logical thinking. Many Chemistry students will also take the opportunity to pursue a related Extended Project qualification in a topic linked to their intended career.
A Level in Chemistry
Course overview
Course information
You will cover a range of topics such as:
- Elements of life – Atomic structure, bonding and calculations
- Developing fuels – Energetics and organic
- Elements from the Oceans – Redox halogens, solubility and pH
calculations - The Ozone – Radicals and CFCs
- What’s in a medicine? – Organic and spectroscopy
- The Chemical Industry – Equilibrium and kinetics
- Polymers and Life – Polyester and biological chemistry
- Developing metal – transition metals and electrochemical cells
- Colour by Design – aromatic compounds, dyes and organic synthesis
Progression onto Year Two
Progression to the second year of this A Level course will be dependent on
having made satisfactory progress in the first year of the course, including
achieving at least an E grade in a formal late spring assessment, as well as the
maintenance of a good level of attendance and commitment throughout the
year.
Start date
01-09-2026